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Prime Minister’s wife joins Cambodian Children’s Fund 20th celebrations

PHNOM PENH, May 27, 2024 — Her Excellency Pich Chanmony attends Cambodian Children’s Fund to celebrate two decades of aiding needy children and families in Cambodia.

Phnom Penh, 26 May 2024// Prime Minister Hun Manet’s wife, Her Excellency Pich Chanmony, joined Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) to celebrate 20 years of the leading NGO’s work with impoverished children and families in Cambodia.

Her Excellency attended today's opening day of celebrations (26 May) as CCF began marking two decades of working in Steung Meanchey.

“Today marks as joyous and proud moment as I preside over the 20th anniversary of the Cambodian Children's Fund and unforgettable historic moment for Cambodian Children's Fund in its notable cause of the past two decades”, said Her Excellency in a speech.

Her Excellency joined Scott Neeson, CCF founder, on stage at the celebrations in Steung Meanchey.

In her speech, Her Excellency said Scott Neeson’s “genuine compassion for Cambodian children and dedication” had inspired her and her husband to support CCF’s mission.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Scott,” said Her Excellency.

“On behalf of Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, Prir Cambodia, I would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the founders, leaders and all involved in the Cambodian Children's Fund for their unwavering generosity, and timeless efforts.”

She appealed to philanthropists and stakeholders, both nationally and internationally, to support CCF’s work.

“Your assistance in all forms, whether through financial contributions to fund operations, donations of essential educational materials and equipment, or sharing of ideas, skills, and knowledge, is invaluable in ensuring the continued success of the Foundation's endeavors.”

Her Excellency also attended a community street festival for CCF students and beneficiaries.

She spent time talking to guests and touring booths and displays.

More than 3,000 CCF students, family members, and invited guests enjoyed the street celebrations.

Her Excellency has a special relationship with the grannies in CCF’s communities, cared for by the CCF Granny Program which provides support including housing and healthcare.

Speaking at the event, Scott Neeson, the former Hollywood executive who gave up his career to start CCF, said he could never have imagined what would be achieved.

“It started with one eight-year-old girl, Srey Nich, who lived and worked in the most horrendous conditions on the dump with her mum and sister. Today, we have around 2,000 children working towards a better life for themselves and their families,” he said.

“We have expanded our reach to provide education, healthcare, and community support to impact more than 155,000 lives, which is remarkable.”

The community street festival was open to the entire Steung Meanchey community with fun games and music.

Princess Jenna was the headline act among top-name singers performing on a community stage. Other artists included Mr Sai, Miss Vis, Mr Puthika, and Miss Sok Serey.

Thanks to ABA Bank, ACLEDA Bank, Wing Bank, Chip Mong, Go Gym, Tian Long Gong Si Co. Ltd, and the Royal Phnom Penh Hospital for supporting CCF's 20-year celebrations.

Cambodian Children’s Fund (CCF) started in 2004 by helping one girl and her family off the garbage dump in Steung Meanchey before expanding to look after the health and well-being of 45 children.

Around 4,300 of the most at-risk children have been supported with access to education and community services.

Nearly 2,000 students are now working towards a better future for themselves and their families.

Sophy Ron was one of the first CCF students in 2004, rescued from the garbage dump where she lived and worked. In 2017, she became the first CCF student to win an international scholarship, gaining a place at Trinity College in Australia. Sophy graduated from the University of Melbourne with a degree in media communications and international relations and is now working at a private school in Australia.

“CCF has done so much for me. I would not be where I am today without CCF; they have given me everything,” says Sophy.

Heuv Nhanh spent five years living and working on the garbage dump as a child and never believed he would leave the dump. With the support of CCF, he did make it out and is now carving out a successful career in filmmaking.

“I thought I would be a garbage picker for life; I didn’t think I had a future,” says Nhanh, now 30.

“When I think about the past, I cannot believe how much things have changed. If you have an opportunity to study, like I was given, then you take it, and that is your chance to change your destiny. You cannot change the past, but you can change the future.”



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